Reading Theme:
Trial: Definition, Usage & Common Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：test period (trial)
trial
/ˈtraɪəl/
n.
A test to see if something works well, is suitable, or is of good quality before you decide to use or buy it.
test period
➕
/test ˈpɪəriəd/
n.
A temporary period during which a product, service, or system is used to assess its functionality, suitability, or quality before a final decision is made.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old French 'trial' and Latin 'trialis' (of or pertaining to a test), related to 'try'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a 'try-out' for a sports team; a trial is like a formal 'try-out' to see if something or someone makes the cut.
📖 Example
Before deciding to buy the new software, the company offered employees a trial period to see if it improved their workflow.
This describes a preliminary testing phase for software evaluation.
🔗 Collocations
free trial – A test period offered without charge
trial version – A limited edition of software for evaluation
on trial – Being tested or evaluated
🔄 Synonyms
test (n.) – A procedure intended to establish quality or performance
experiment (n.) – A scientific procedure undertaken to make a discovery or test a hypothesis
probation (n.) – A period of testing or observation of a person's behavior or capabilities
🚫 Antonyms
purchase (n.) – The act of buying something outright
commitment (n.) – The state of being dedicated to a long-term course of action
🌱 Derivatives
try (v.) – To attempt or test something
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'trial' originates from Anglo-French and Old French, meaning 'the act of trying or testing'. It's deeply embedded in legal systems and the scientific method, representing the process of examination to establish truth or quality.
Meaning 2：court case (trial)
trial
/ˈtraɪəl/
n.
The formal process in a court of law where evidence is examined to decide if someone is guilty of a crime or to settle a legal dispute.
court case
➕
/kɔːrt keɪs/
n.
The formal judicial process where evidence and legal arguments are presented before a judge (and sometimes a jury) to determine the truth of alleged claims or criminal charges.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The judge banged the gavel and declared the trial open, as the defendant nervously took his seat.
This depicts the official commencement of legal proceedings in a courtroom.
🔗 Collocations
jury trial – A trial where a jury decides the verdict
fair trial – A legal hearing conducted justly and impartially
stand trial – To undergo a trial in court
🔄 Synonyms
hearing (n.) – A proceeding before a court or other decision-making body
lawsuit (n.) – A claim or dispute brought to a court for adjudication
court case (n.) – A matter that is brought before a court of law
🚫 Antonyms
acquittal (n.) – A judgment that a person is not guilty of the crime with which they have been charged
settlement (n.) – An official agreement intended to resolve a dispute without a full trial
🌱 Derivatives
trial (adj.) – Of or relating to a trial (e.g., trial lawyer)
Wordbook
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